Erram proves to be NLEX's gain, bags PBA weekly plum

MANILA, Philippines – John Paul Erram has proven every bit that he deserves the trust NLEX is giving him after emerging as the 2019 Cignal-PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of January 28-February 3.

Acquired by NLEX in an offseason trade with Blackwater, the 6-foot-8 Erram has served as a solid inside presence for the Road Warriors in the 2019 PBA Philippine Cup.

The energetic Erram stood tall on the defensive end, swatting away a potential game-tying basket by Ranidel de Ocampo in the dying seconds to lift NLEX to a pulsating 87-83 win over Meralco in the Petron Saturday Special in Antipolo City.

NLEX coach Yeng Guiao said he’s no longer surprised to see Erram rise to the occasion, especially on the defensive end.

"That's really the role Poy Erram plays for us, defensively. I'm not surprised he did that because that's his role for the team,” Guiao said of their prized offseason recruit.

The 29-year-old Erram delivered all-around numbers of 12 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and a game-high five blocks to help NLEX notch its second straight win after a 0-3 start.

Erram is averaging 16.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, a conference-best 4.0 blocks and 3.2 assists per game.